DINNER AND A SHOW: On the Town offers suggestions for eateries and entertainment.

Hip-hop musical `Clay' calls for a menu that doesn't weigh you down

September 01, 2006|By Jenn Goddu, Special to the Tribune

"Clay" -- a one-man hip-hop musical -- is the inaugural show in the new black-box studio at Lookingglass Theatre. So in keeping with the scaled-down style of the space, why not start your evening with more casual and affordable dinner fare? And if you eat light beforehand, you'll be ready to move on the dance floor after the show if you're so inspired.

Written and performed by Northwestern alum Matt Sax, "Clay" is about a young man's rise from suburban dysfunction to music-biz stardom. Argo (819 N. Rush St., 312-951-5302, www.argotea.com) has a sleek and lounge-like feel with comfortable chairs you can sink into while listening to funky beats. The cafe offers an array of sandwiches and wraps, with fillings such as chicken pesto, Mediterranean tuna or vegan spinach ($5.95 each). Or try a slice of veggie quiche ($3.95 each).

There are also stuffed croissants both savory (ham and cheese, spinach and feta) or sweet (chocolate or almond) ranging from $1.95 to $3.25 that could pair with one of the salads or the yogurt granola parfait ($3.65).

You'll want to try one of Argo's signature teas. A small cup lets you sample the flavor of the day. Or there is a plethora of hot, iced and ice-blended tea options. These include a hot hibiscus steamer of hibiscus and cider, a cool "mojitea" with mint and fresh lime juice or Carolina honey breeze or the blended strawberry "smootea." Drinks cost $2.75 to $4.35.

Another place to visit for quick and casual eats before the show is Wow Bao in Water Tower Place (835 N. Michigan Ave., 312-642-5888), where you can nosh for about $7 a person.

After the show, you can find hip-hop dancing at the Funky Buddha Lounge (728 W. Grand Ave., 312-666-1695). Or relax with drinks at The Greenhouse (160 E. Pearson St., (312-266-1000), an upscale bar and restaurant in an atrium on the 12th floor of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel.